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Cheesy Layered Ground Beef and Pasta Casserole

Cheesy Layered Ground Beef and Pasta Casserole
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A hearty and comforting Cheesy Layered Ground Beef and Pasta Casserole combining savory lean ground beef, tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and a melty blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings, this easy-to-make casserole delivers warm, satisfying layers of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Sauce

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 cup tomato sauce (marinara or homemade)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)

Pasta

  • 8 oz medium pasta (penne or rotini)

Cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Add ground beef and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and crumbly, breaking up the beef as it cooks. Drain excess fat, then stir in tomato sauce and let simmer to combine flavors.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta just until al dente to avoid mushiness in the casserole. Drain pasta and toss lightly with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
  3. Assemble the Casserole Layers: Grease a casserole dish. Spread a thin layer of the beef and tomato mixture on the bottom. Add an even layer of cooked pasta over the sauce, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese. Repeat layering with beef, pasta, and cheese until all ingredients are used, finishing with a top layer of cheese.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake casserole uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for a crispy top, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  5. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to set layers and make serving easier. Scoop out portions and enjoy the melty, layered goodness.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook pasta; cook slightly firmer than usual since it continues to cook in the oven.
  • Drain excess fat well from the beef for a less greasy casserole.
  • Use a blend of cheeses for enhanced flavor complexity and texture.
  • Allow the casserole to rest after baking to help layers hold together.
  • Mix fresh herbs between layers for bursts of freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: casserole, ground beef, cheesy pasta, comfort food, baked pasta, family dinner

Find it online: https://homemademealz.com/cheesy-layered-ground-beef-and-pasta-casserole/